Student Profile: Yesika Zelaya

As the vice president of Davidson Community College, Yesika Zelaya, a 19-year-old young woman, sets great examples and is an encouragement to all scholars over the county.

BY ANGELICA HERRERATeen correspondent

As the vice president of Davidson Community College, Yesika Zelaya, a 19-year-old young woman, sets great examples and is an encouragement to all scholars over the county. She attended Thomasville High School and is now enrolled as a Davidson Community College student pursuing her architectural dream.

What are your plans for the future?“I want to become an architect. First, I want to get my associate's degree in arts. Then, I want to transfer to UNC Charlotte to get my bachelor's degree in architecture, then my master's in Drexel University in Pennsylvania.”

If you could give advice to new incoming students, what would it be?“Get involved! Get involved! I have heard some statistics show that involved students are more likely to graduate or pursue their career in college or university. It makes your college life easier and enjoyable. It also helps you build up lifelong relationships that will last forever.”

Would you like to travel, if so where and why?“I would love to travel to Paris, France. One of my reasons is since I want to become an architect and to build structures. The Eiffel Tower took great architects. That construction is one of the most creative and well-known structures of this world, for me. And I wish to see it in person. In addition, DCCC is now partnering up with Central Piedmont Community College to study abroad trips, but for my surprise they have Paris. So I am really hoping to go this summer.”

What's your heritage; how did you adapt to the United States?“I am from San Miguel, El Salvador, in Central America. I was 11 years old when I first came. It was really hard for me to come and try to fit in. One of the most difficult things for me was the language, the food and the school system. The language took me three years to learn. The food was also different; it was from all different cultures. It was American, Asian and also other Hispanic cuisines. Now, the school system was completely in contrast from El Salvador. They didn't use uniforms, they didn't spank their students, they gave out lunch, and they got out at 3 p.m.”

Who inspires you?“God. I think he is the only reason I am standing where I am. He inspires me to be a better person and even though I am not from this country, I am still going to college and able to succeed in my dreams because of his grace. He empowers me to be great and change the world.”

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